Bandits have abducted the traditional head of Olariya in Ode-Oriya, a village in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Chief Adeniyi Adelana, and shot his wife.
It was learnt that the 60-year-old monarch was kidnapped on Saturday night at about 8pm when the assailants invaded his compound.
During the attack, the victim’s wife, who attempted to escape, was shot in the hand and sustained serious injuries.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said it has launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the abducted community leader.
Police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh said operatives from the B Division in Owo, alongside other security agencies, swiftly mobilised to the scene after receiving a distress call, secured the area, and conducted a preliminary assessment as part of ongoing investigations.
He said a full-scale operation has been activated, with security personnel combing nearby forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the victim and apprehend the attackers.
According to him, tactical deployments have been reinforced across Owo and adjoining communities to prevent further incidents and improve operational coverage in the area.
The state Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, has also directed all tactical units and intelligence teams to intensify efforts toward the victim’s safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible.
The police assured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the victim is reunited with his family and that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
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